The return of Leo Messi to the field has been much awaited, much longer than expected. But after three games without playing, he made his comeback in Inter Miami's victory over Cavalier… and sealed the qualification in stoppage time, scoring his third goal of the season. In the quarterfinals of ConcaChampions, Inter Miami will face Los Angeles FC.

Messi was once again a substitute

With the lead built up in the first leg, Inter Miami settled the tie in the final moments of the first half with a goal from Luis Suárez from the penalty spot. It was then that Javier Mascherano determined it was the right time for Leo Messi to reappear, bringing him on in the 53rd minute, replacing none other than Luis Suárez.

Let’s remember that Messi didn’t travel with Inter Miami to face Houston Dynamo on March 3rd... causing a huge stir, which led the club to give away tickets for another match of the season to their fans. He was also unavailable for the first leg of ConcaChampions against Cavalier, and although he sat on the bench, he didn’t play against Charlotte.

Mascherano speaks about Messi’s return

Mascherano, as he explained that day in a press conference, believed it wasn't the most opportune game for Messi’s comeback. It’s worth remembering that on that day, Ustari was sent off in the 38th minute of the game, and Inter Miami had to struggle to get the victory against Charlotte, thanks to a solitary goal from Allende at the start of the second half.

Against Cavalier, the situation was completely different: Leo hadn’t played in the last three matches. “We wanted him to play, but we needed to find the right moment to bring him onto the field. It was good because he felt well, scored, the people in Jamaica got to see him, and it was a good night for everyone,” said Mascherano after Inter Miami’s victory.